Essay 3: Song Critique
For the next few weeks, we will be considering the role of music in popular culture and
opinion. As we progress, we will be considering the following questions: What types of
music are considered “pop-culture”? What role does music play in creating popular
culture? How does music portray a positive or negative image of popular culture?
Assignment: for this essay, you will be using expository and illustration techniques to
explore and critique a popular song. You will choose one popular song which has become
a part of popular culture in the U.S. You will then decide if the song is a positive or
negative representation of modern popular culture. You will support your stance with
detailed examples from the song.
You will be creating your essay in 5 parts:
1.) Expository Paragraph: You will write an initial expository paragraph which
will provide an overview of your opinion on the song and begin to explore
examples. This will then be expanded into an illustration essay.
2.) Introduction: You will use the “Quoting” technique discussed in class to
write your introduction. Make sure to find an interesting quote, fully respond
to the quote, and transition to your thesis.
3.) Thesis: You will create a thesis which illustrates your opinion about the song.
Your thesis will follow this template: Artist’s “Song” creates displays a
Positive/negative image of popular culture because _____________. (Flo
Rida’s “Whistle” creates a negative image of popular culture because it
promotes casual and meaningless sexual activity).
4.) Body: You will develop illustration paragraphs using detailed examples from
your chosen song which supports your opinion (Quotes, video scenes,
melodies etc…) You will be using the strategies discussed in the textbook and
in class.
5.) Conclusion: You will tie your argument and paper to a bigger issue for this
conclusion. This will be discussed in class. Make sure that you’re not bringing
in new information, but that you’re demonstrating why the song’s negative or
positive image is important to our society as a whole.
You will compile all of your brainstorming, outlining, and drafting in a portfolio with all
your other required Materials.
Make sure to bring in a hard copy of your portfolio and submit a copy of your final
draft and reflection to InSite. Check Portfolio Requirements for a list of required
materials.
The essay must be 3 - 4 pages and in MLA format.
Check Course Outline for Draft and Final Due Dates